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Jamie and Bobby Deen, left to right, hosts of the Food Network's "Road Tasted"

Updated at 11:41 AM EST on Wednesday, Jun 26, 2013

Paula Deen's not racist y'all--at least, not according to her sons.

Jamie and Bobby Deen spoke with CNN's "New Day" Tuesday, defending their famous mother in the wake of her N-word scandal.

"Our mother is one of the most compassionate, good-hearted, empathetic people that you'd ever meet," Bobby, who is a chef like his mother and brother, said. "These accusations are very hurtful to her, and it's very sad."

"I'm disgusted by the entire thing, because it began as extortion and it has become character assassination," he added.

Jamie said it's "ridiculous, completely absurd to think there is an environment of racism in our business, and it's really disrespectful to the people that we work with. We have strong, educated men and women of character that have been with us for five, 10, 15, 20 years. To think they would allow themselves to be in this position is simply baloney. It's ridiculous."

Paula did apologize for her past use of the N-word, but for some, it was too little, too late. The Food Network announced that they would not be renewing their contract with the "Paula's Home Cooking" star, QVC distanced themselves from her, and Smithfield Foods cut ties completely.